Leeds Apprentice Wins National Education Award

Local apprentice Elyssa Marshall recognised at UK-wide ceremony

A Leeds-based apprentice has been honoured with a top national education award, highlighting the achievements of young people in the construction and property maintenance sectors.

Elyssa Marshall, who is completing a Level 2 Property Maintenance Operative apprenticeship with Yorkshire Housing Association, received the ‘Amazon Intermediate Apprentice of the Year Award’ at the National Apprenticeship & Skills Awards held in London on 26 November 2025. The awards ceremony, hosted at The Royal Lancaster Hotel, was attended by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson MP and celebrated outstanding apprentices and employers from across the UK.

Path to national recognition

Before winning the national title, Elyssa secured victory in the Yorkshire & Humber regional heat of the awards, which took place in York in October. The national awards attracted over 1,100 entries from a variety of sectors including construction, health, IT, science, and digital industries.

Apprenticeship experience and community involvement

As part of her apprenticeship, Elyssa has been developing skills across multiple trades, gaining practical experience in maintaining and repairing homes. She has also been praised for her commitment to delivering quality service to tenants.

Outside of her apprenticeship, Elyssa supports male and non-binary survivors of sexual violence, reflecting her wider commitment to community welfare. She has expressed a desire to continue contributing to tenant safety and wellbeing through her work.

Comments from colleagues and organisers

• Chris Tunningley, Assistant Principal at Leeds College of Building, described Elyssa as a “phenomenal female role model” and commended her dedication to learning diverse building repair skills.
• Kiran Olak, Emerging Talent Lead at Yorkshire Housing Association, highlighted Elyssa’s role as an example for other apprentices, noting how her hard work and positive attitude have opened opportunities.

Another Leeds College of Building apprentice, Lois Riley from Equans, was also a finalist at the national awards, marking a strong showing for the college.

Additional achievements

In addition to her award success, Elyssa participated as a panellist at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in May 2025. She joined industry experts to discuss strategies for attracting and retaining talent in the construction sector.

The National Apprenticeship & Skills Awards, now in their 22nd year, continue to recognise excellence across the skills sector, supporting the development of apprentices and T Level students nationwide.